Medical Disclaimer & Safety Guidelines
Important health disclosures regarding the Wim Hof Method, breath retention, and physiological contraindications.
1. Never Practice In or Near Water (Shallow Water Blackout)
The breathing exercises featured in Luma involve controlled cyclic hyperventilation, which purges carbon dioxide ($CO_2$) from your bloodstream. Because $CO_2$ is the primary chemical trigger that prompts breathing, its absence can lead to sudden loss of consciousness without warning.
ABSOLUTE PROHIBITION: Never practice while swimming, in a bathtub, pool, shower, freediving, or while operating a motor vehicle or heavy machinery. Always practice while seated or lying down in a safe, dry environment.
2. General Health Disclosure
The content, tools, timers, and guides provided by Luma (luma-breath.work) are for educational, biohacking, and mindfulness purposes only. Luma is not a medical device, nor does it provide professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or therapy.
3. Absolute Contraindications
Do NOT perform cyclic hyperventilation or extended breath holds if you have any of the following conditions:
- Epilepsy or a personal/family history of unprovoked seizures
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Cardiovascular conditions (angina, coronary artery disease, heart arrhythmias)
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension) or brain aneurysms
- History of stroke or transient ischemic attacks (TIA)
- Spontaneous pneumothorax (collapsed lung history)
- Kidney failure or chronic metabolic disorders
4. Physical Sensations (Tingling & Lightheadedness)
During power breathing, it is common to experience tingling in the hands, feet, and face, as well as lightheadedness. These are natural physiological responses to temporary respiratory alkalosis. If you ever feel severe dizziness or discomfort, stop the power breathing and resume normal, relaxed breathing immediately.